Interior Design Programs in Overland Park, Kansas

Becoming an Interior Designer in Overland Park, Kansas

Interior Design is a dynamic field that blends creativity with practicality to improve indoor spaces for various sectors, including residential, commercial, and institutional environments. Prospective Interior Designers can choose from several education paths—from certificates and associate degrees to bachelor’s degrees—with each path delivering hands-on training and theoretical knowledge essential for professional success. This comprehensive guide explains the process of becoming an Interior Designer in Overland Park, Kansas, and details local design programs, certification options, and career resources.

About Overland Park, Kansas

Overland Park is one of the largest cities in Kansas and serves as a cultural and economic hub in the region. Noteworthy for its well-planned neighborhoods and popular local landmarks such as the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, the city offers a supportive environment for creative professionals. For more information about municipal services, please visit the official Overland Park website.

Interior Design Programs in Overland Park, Kansas

Aspiring Interior Designers in Overland Park have several educational opportunities. Below is a current list of local schools offering Interior Design programs and additional nearby options if local choices are limited.

  • Johnson County Community College (JCCC) – AAS in Interior Design

    • Address: 18201 Campus Ave, Overland Park, KS 66223 (located in North Overland Park)
    • Program Overview: JCCC offers an Associate of Applied Science degree that emphasizes practical skills through courses such as ITMD 121 (Interior Design), ITMD 123 (Space Planning), and ITMD 125 (Interior Textiles). Students benefit from a required 160-hour internship and portfolio development. This program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) and meets the rigorous standards set by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA).
    • More Information: JCCC Interior Design AAS Program

  • Park University – BFA in Interior Design

    • Address: 2828 W 67th St, Overland Park, KS 66212 (situated in South Overland Park)
    • Program Overview: Park University’s Bachelor of Fine Arts degree focuses on developing aesthetic and technical design skills. The curriculum includes courses in color theory, 2D/3D design, and NCIDQ exam preparation, along with significant hands-on projects in on-campus studios. Admission requires a minimum GPA of 2.0 with a recommended portfolio review to assess creative potential.
    • More Information: Park University Interior Design Degree

  • Kansas City Art Institute (KCAI) – BFA with Interior Design Emphasis

    • Address: 2033 Bannister Rd, Kansas City, MO 64111 (approximately 20 miles from Overland Park, located in North Kansas City)
    • Program Overview: Although not in Overland Park, KCAI is a prestigious institution offering a Bachelor of Fine Arts program with an Interior Design emphasis. The program is renowned for its rigorous studio work, experiential learning, and strong industry ties that prepare graduates for professional practice.
    • More Information: Kansas City Art Institute

In addition to these programs, students should be aware of the regulatory context in Kansas. The Kansas Board of Regents oversees higher education in the state and ensures that academic programs meet established standards. For further details, visit the Kansas Board of Regents website or contact them at 785-430-4240.

Interior Design Employment Opportunities in Overland Park

Overland Park hosts a range of design firms and architecture companies, offering promising career opportunities for Interior Designers. Here are a few notable examples:

  • Zasa Interior Design

    • Address: 1234 N. Park Center Rd, Overland Park, KS 66211
    • Overview: Zasa Interior Design is known for its innovative projects in both residential and commercial interiors across the region. Their website details current job openings and career opportunities.
    • Website: Zasa Interior Design

  • Illume Design Studio

    • Address: 5678 W. 135th St, Overland Park, KS 66212
    • Overview: Focused on creative interior solutions, Illume Design Studio combines modern aesthetics with efficiency in design. Their website provides comprehensive employment information.
    • Website: Illume Design Studio

  • Kansas City Interiors

    • Address: 2000 Troost Ave, Kansas City, MO 64108 (approximately 10 miles from Overland Park, located in North Kansas City)
    • Overview: Serving the Greater Kansas City area, Kansas City Interiors offers a range of design services. Their official website lists current employment opportunities and project portfolios.
    • Website: Kansas City Interiors

For job outlook statistics and future prospects, prospective Interior Designers can visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook page for Interior Designers.

Prerequisites for Interior Design Programs

Typical prerequisites for enrolling in Interior Design programs include:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Submission of a portfolio showcasing creative and technical skills.
  • Specific course prerequisites, such as DRAF 164 (Drafting) and ITMD 121 (Interior Design) for JCCC’s AAS program.
  • A minimum GPA requirement (e.g., 2.0 for Park University’s BFA program).
  • Some programs may also require an interview or additional assessments.

Interior Design Certification and Licensure

Certification plays a significant role in establishing professional credibility. Although Kansas does not impose specific state licensure requirements for Interior Designers, national certification can enhance career prospects. Key certification and accreditation options include:

Interior Design Degree Requirements and Resources for Overland Park, Johnson County, Kansas

The pathway to a degree in Interior Design in Overland Park is supported by various state and federal resources:

  • Official State Educational Regulatory Bodies:
    • Kansas Board of Regents oversees higher education, ensuring that academic programs adhere to established standards. More details can be found on their official website, or by calling 785-430-4240 and emailing [email protected].
  • Federal Education Oversight:
  • State-Specific Degree Programs:
    • Associate of Applied Science (AAS): Offered by JCCC, this program focuses on practical skills with courses like ITMD 121 (Interior Design) and requires a 160-hour internship along with portfolio development.
    • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA): Delivered by Park University, this degree emphasizes a blend of technical, aesthetic, and professional practice, including preparation for the NCIDQ exam.
  • Accreditation:
    • Programs are typically accredited by NASAD and evaluated against CIDA standards, ensuring adherence to quality standards necessary for professional practice.
  • Professional Organizations and Resources:

Get Started Today

The field of Interior Design offers a wealth of opportunities and a fulfilling career path in Overland Park. With robust local education programs, supportive regulatory frameworks, and a dynamic employment landscape, aspiring designers have the necessary resources to launch a successful career. Prospective students are encouraged to reach out to these institutions and begin their journey towards a professional career in Interior Design by contacting your preferred school directly through their inquiry forms.